Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street in Szczecin

The Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street in Szczecin, known locally as Kamienica przy ul. Koński Kierat 12 w Szczecinie, stands as a testament to the resilience and historical richness of this charming Polish city. Nestled at the corner of Koński Kierat Street and Mariacka Street, this building is one of the few survivors of the tumultuous events that reshaped Szczecin’s Old Town during the 20th century.

A Journey Through Time

The story of the Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street is a fascinating journey through time. In the 16th and early 17th centuries, the site was home to a bustling municipal brewery, affectionately known as the Oberstadtkeller. By 1681, during Swedish rule, the building transformed into a warehouse called the Altes Packhaus. Over the years, it served various purposes, including housing a spinning school under the auspices of the Royal Pack and Excise House.

In 1880, the old structure was demolished to make way for a new classicist building, constructed on the ancient 14th-century foundations. This new edifice became the meeting place for a Freemason's lodge, marking a period of intellectual and social gatherings. However, the tide of history turned once again when the lodge was replaced by the National Socialist League of the Reich for Physical Exercise during the era of the Third Reich.

Surviving the Storms of War

The 1940s brought devastation to Szczecin’s Old Town, with numerous buildings falling victim to Allied bombings. The Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street was not spared; its roof, third floor, and part of the wing facing Koński Kierat Street were destroyed. For years, the building lay in ruins, a silent witness to the ravages of war.

It wasn't until the early 1960s that the building saw a rebirth. The reconstruction efforts did not restore the third floor or the damaged part of the left wing, but instead, the remaining two floors were covered with a new roof, and a new gable wall was constructed in the left wing. This careful restoration preserved the building's historical essence while adapting it to post-war realities.

A Glimpse into Architectural Elegance

Originally a four-story structure, the Tenement house now stands proudly with three floors. Its architectural features are a delightful blend of rustic charm and classic elegance. The ground floor is adorned with rustication, while the upper floors boast decorative red brickwork. The facade facing Mariacka Street is particularly striking with its eight-axis design. The first-floor windows are framed with ornate bands and topped with pediments shaped like seashells, while the second-floor windows feature simpler pediments.

The facade facing Koński Kierat Street is equally captivating, with a five-axis design and unique stucco decorations. A relief depicting a lion's mouth with a garland adds a touch of whimsy, while a metal anchor for street lamps harks back to a bygone era. The building’s two-story cellar adds an intriguing layer to its architectural narrative.

A Modern-Day Treasure

Since 1999, the Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street has been privately owned and houses an antique shop, drawing visitors who are keen to explore its historical charm and uncover hidden treasures. The antique shop, with its eclectic collection, offers a delightful journey through time, mirroring the building's own storied past.

Walking through the streets of Szczecin, the Tenement house stands as a beacon of history amidst modernity. It is a reminder of the city’s resilience, having withstood the tests of time and conflict. The building’s survival is not just a testament to architectural endurance but also to the cultural and historical identity of Szczecin.

Visiting the Tenement House

For those who find themselves wandering the streets of Szczecin, a visit to the Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street is a must. It offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it invites you to step into a world where history and modern life coexist harmoniously.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Tenement house promises a captivating experience. As you explore its corridors, imagine the stories that have unfolded within its walls, from the bustling brewery days to the intellectual gatherings of the Freemasons, and the resilient spirit that saw it rise from the ashes of war.

In conclusion, the Tenement house at 12 Koński Kierat Street is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Szczecin’s enduring spirit and a celebration of its rich cultural tapestry. As you stand before its red brick facade, let your imagination wander and appreciate the layers of history that have shaped this remarkable city.